Paul Merson makes ‘flying’ Bournemouth v Liverpool prediction
Liverpool will not beat Bournemouth on Saturday, Paul Merson has said.
Arne Slot rested the majority of his starters for the 3-2 loss to PSV in the Champions League on 29 January so they are fresh for the clash at the Vitality Stadium.
The Reds could potentially extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points on 1 February with Arsenal facing Manchester City on Sunday (2 February).
However, writing for Sportskeeda, the former Gunner predicted trouble on the south coast, saying: “I don’t see Liverpool beating Bournemouth this weekend.
“It’s one of the toughest stadiums to visit in the Premier League and Bournemouth are absolutely flying at the moment.
“We saw how Brentford troubled Liverpool and I think Bournemouth can do the same here.”
Liverpool can take huge advantage in title race
Depending on the results this weekend, Slot’s side can take a major step forward in the Premier League title race.
With the Gunners facing a resurgent City side, they could end the weekend with an even bigger advantage at the summit of the division.
However, they will face a tough task given the fact that the Cherries are on a 12-match unbeaten streak in all competitions coming into the contest.
The Reds have bounced back from a run of four draws in seven league matches to win their last two in the top flight.
Slot is clearly aware of the threat that Andoni Iraola’s side possesses as he rested the likes of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold for the dead rubber in midweek.
Merson could very well be right but he could also look like a fool if the Anfield outfit come away from the south coast with a victory.
In other Liverpool news, a Reds star is set for a new transfer twist after his loan was cancelled.
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